What rising interest rates mean for you?

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) announced it would hold interest rates steady on Tuesday 4 July 2023. With future rate rises still a possibility, we unpack what interest rate rises could mean for you and your super.

At its July meeting, the RBA decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 4.10%.  

Rate increases are a reflection of economic conditions. Central banks raise and lower interest rates to stimulate economic growth and manage inflation. If inflation is high, they might raise rates to try to control it. If it’s low, they may lower rates to encourage consumers to spend and borrow money.

Throughout the COVID-19 era, very low interest rates have supported economies around the world. And the combined effect of low interest rates and government hardship payments proved very effective in stabilising the Australian economy.

Yet lately, supportive government spending and monetary measures have coincided with supply chain shocks, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, lockdowns in China and COVID-19 related labour shortages. These have resulted in excess demand which can’t be met by supply and higher inflation.

At some point, central banks, including the RBA, needed to raise interest rates back to normal levels, but these shocks are pushing up rates faster than expected.

In recent years, low interest rates bolstered share and fixed interest markets. Now, these markets are adjusting to higher long-term interest rates.

Compared to long-term averages, the official cash rate is still very low. And although we expect rates will continue rising for the next 12 months, we don't expect rates to climb to the levels seen in the 1990s or immediately following the global financial crisis in 2008.

How will a rate rise impact my super?

We've seen negative returns in 2022 across most investment options. This is because share markets tend to react to changes in interest rates.

Investments in property can be impacted by rising interest rates because they tend to reduce the borrowing capacity for investors and borrowers. Higher interest rates can also slow down the property market by reducing demand.

Fixed interest investments, like bonds, may also be impacted by long-term interest rate rises. In this circumstance, the price of bonds will typically fall.

It’s important to take a long-term view when looking at your super. Longer-term returns on CFS’s investment options are positive.

Any volatility is usually short-lived. History shows that people who stick with their strategy and remain invested are generally rewarded.

If you make regular contributions to your super, you’re now investing in markets that are lower priced than they were a year ago.

What if I'm feeling uncomfortable?

CFS offers a broad range of range of investment options that are suitable for members who may have a lower tolerance when it comes to the volatility of their investments.

For instance, depending on your personal circumstances, a cash fund or a term deposit may be suitable if you’re investing for the short to medium term and want a known outcome for your funds – without worrying about market volatility. That way, you could keep your money invested in super, while also benefiting from the more protective nature of a term deposit.

Find the latest increased FirstRate interest rates on FirstChoice

Speak to a financial adviser

If you’re concerned about the impact of rising interest rates on your super, or if your investment strategy isn't appropriate for your stage of life, the best thing to do is speak to a financial adviser. They can help you determine whether your super is still on track to reach your financial goals.

When it comes to super, keep in mind that it’s a long-term investment that will inevitably go through all sorts of market conditions over the years – high interest rates, low interest rates, market downturns, and market booms. It’s part of the lifecycle of investing. 

We’re here to help

If you would like to talk to someone about your financial goals, you can use our online tool to connect with a financial adviser near you.

At Colonial First State, we are working hard to make sure you have the support you need. We will continue to monitor markets, share regular market updates, and communicate closely with our network of experienced investment managers.

As you keep your long-term goals top of mind, remember our team is here to help – with news, insights and helpful resources available on our website to help keep you up-to-date.